Cyprian of Carthage (Full Script)

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Cyprian of Carthage

Post-Apostolic Church

INTRO

Cyprian was an overseer in Carthage around AD 250.

WORKS

He was greatly influenced by Tertullian, who was an overseer in Carthage two generations before.

Speaking about how much Cyprian loved Tertullian, Jerome wrote,

I have seen a certain old man, Paul of Concordia, [from] a town of Italy.  While he was a very young man, he had been secretary to the blessed Cyprian who was already advanced in age.  He said that he had seen how Cyprian was accustomed never to pass a day without reading [the works of] Tertullian and that he frequently said to him, "Give me the master," meaning Tertullian.  (Jerome.  AD 400.  APNF2, vol 3, page 373.)

Most of Cyprian's writings we have are in the form of letters between him and other leaders in the church.

Cyprian was one of the most outspoken opponents of Novatian, who left the main church and began a schism.

LIFE

Cyprian was born into a wealthy pagan family.  After his conversion at the age of 40 and because of his love for Christ, he liquidated his entire estate and gave all the money to the poor.  He was still relatively new in the faith when he was appointed as an overseer in Carthage--which was uncommon.  It is clear that he led a very Christ-like life that was apparent to others.

Cyprian saw the growing persecution under Emperor Valerian and prepared the church in Carthage for it.  In AD 258, he was arrested and condemned to die.  Many Christians supported him that day.  While he stood on the platform, ready to be executed, he willingly removed his own clothes and knelt down before he was beheaded for his faith.

QUOTATIONS

About Cyprian, Pre-Nicene Christians wrote,

Cyprian, therefore, was above all others, distinguished and renowned, since he had sought great glory to himself in the profession of the art of oratory.  And he wrote very many things worthy of admiration in their particular class.  For he was of a kind of mind which was ready, abundant, agreeable, and (that which is the greatest excellence of style) plain and open.  (Lactantius.  AD 304-313.  ANF, vol 7, page 136.)

About Christianity, Cyprian said,

But for us, beloved brethren, who are philosophers, not in words, but in deeds, and do not put forward our wisdom in our dress, but in truth..., [we] do not speak great things, but live them.  (Cyprian.  AD 250.  ANF, vol 5, page 484.)